TUI could be the first to relaunch flights from a closed down UK airport – two years after it shut.
The tour operator – one of the biggest in the UK – operated the last flight from Doncaster Sheffield Airport back in 2022.
AlamyTUI could be the first to relaunch flights from Doncaster Sheffiled Airport[/caption]
AlamyThe airport closed back in 2022[/caption]
Despite its closure two years ago, a huge petition as well as support from the local council has provided fresh hope it could reopen with flights across Europe.
Last month, it was confirmed that the current landowners, Peel, agreed on an 125-year lease of the airport to Doncaster Council.
And Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones told local media that TUI confirmed they would operate from the airport if it reopens.
He said: “Following our lease announcement last month, we have heard from TUI that they are keen to return to our airport, we have kept in regular contact with them since the structural review of the former DSA site was announced.
“We have engaged TUI with the bidders for their return to our airport to be explored and we are hopeful that we will see TUI’s brand back in Doncaster.”
A spokesperson added: “TUI has always supported Doncaster Sheffield Airport, proudly flying customers from the region and were disappointed when the airport closed.”
They said they were “excited about actively engaging with stakeholders about a potential re-opening”.
While it is yet to be given the full go ahead, flights could resume to holiday hotspots across Spain and Cyprus.
Once the 26th biggest airport in the UK – as well as one of the best – Doncaster Sheffield first opened in 2005.
However, the airport struggled following the pandemic.
Wizz Air, who was one of the airport’s main operator, pulled all flights, leaving just TUI in operation.
A UK airport currently in operation is to undergo huge changes.
We have heard from TUI that they are keen to return to our airport
Ros Jones, Doncaster Mayor
East Midlands Airport‘s new £120million renovation project will introduce new scanning technology which will speed up airport security queues, as well as upgrades to toilets and seating.
Along with resurfacing the runways, the works are expected to continue for the next five years.
And last month, easyJet opened its new base at Birmingham Airport – the first new UK base in over a decade – with 16 new flight routes.
Other UK airports with reopening plans
It’s not just Doncaster Sheffield hoping to reopen – here are some other UK airports with relaunch plans.
Plymouth Airport
Despite closing more than 13 years ago, the local council confirmed that it could one day reopen.
Once welcoming as many as 157,000 passengers a year, routes included Plymouth to London and Wales.
Manston Airport
Another airport hoping to reopen in the UK is Manston Airport in Kent.
After closing in 2014, it has since been used as a filming location, but hoped to relaunch passenger flights by 2028 – although has been met with fierce opposition since.
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